A space probe has two engines. Each generates the same amount of force when fired, and the directions of these forces can be independently adjusted. When the engines are fired simultaneously and each applies its force in the same direction, the probe, starting from rest, takes 48 s to travel a certain distance. How long does it take to travel the same distance, again starting from rest, if the engines are fired simultaneously and the forces that they apply to the probe are perpendicular?

Question

A space probe has two engines. Each generates the same amount of force when fired, and the directions of these forces can be independently adjusted. When the engines are fired simultaneously and each applies its force in the same direction, the probe, starting from rest, takes 48 s to travel a certain distance. How long does it take to travel the same distance, again starting from rest, if the engines are fired simultaneously and the forces that they apply to the probe are perpendicular?
 HELP!!! REALLY NEED IT!!

drwls · Answer

If the forces are perpendicular, the NET force is half way between the two engine exhaust directions and the magnitude is sqrt2 = 1.414 times the .

With the net force reduced by a factor 1/1.414 = 0.707, it will take sqrt2 = 1.414 times as long to travel the same distance.